Lemon Custard Cake
Lemon Custard Cake is a delightful dessert that perfectly merges the brightness of lemons with the creaminess of custard, resulting in a light and fluffy treat that will have you coming back for seconds. This cake is not only a feast for the eyes but also for the taste buds, showcasing a sunny citrus flavor that is refreshing and irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying a slice with your afternoon tea, this cake is sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to adore Lemon Custard Cake. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. The ingredients are simple and wholesome, blending together to create a cake that’s bursting with flavor. Imagine the delightful aroma of fresh lemons wafting through your kitchen as the cake bakes, filling your home with warmth and sweetness.
This cake is family-friendly, meaning that it can easily become a go-to recipe for any occasion. It’s versatile enough to be served at parties, holiday gatherings, or simply enjoyed as a delightful dessert at the end of a weeknight meal. With its light and airy texture, it’s a refreshing alternative to heavier desserts.
Ingredients
Gather these delightful and fresh ingredients to create your Lemon Custard Cake:
- 1 cup granulated sugar: This will sweeten your cake, giving it a nice balanced flavor.
- 1/2 cup butter, softened: Adds richness and creates a fluffy texture.
- 3 large eggs: Essential for building structure and moisture.
- 1 cup milk: Contributes to the cake’s creaminess.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: The base of our cake, providing stability.
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest: This tiny addition brings powerful lemon flavor and aroma.
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice: Brightens the overall taste with its acidity.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Gives the cake its lift and fluffiness.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the wonderful flavors.
Step-by-Step Directions
Follow these easy steps to create your very own Lemon Custard Cake:
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan to ensure your cake comes out beautifully.
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In a mixing bowl, beat the sugar and softened butter together until they’re light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
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Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. The mixture should be smooth and creamy after all eggs are incorporated.
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Stir in the milk, flour, lemon zest, lemon juice, baking powder, and salt until just combined. Avoid overmixing—the key is a smooth batter without lumps.
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Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
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Bake for about 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden and puffed up.
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Allow to cool slightly before serving. The final result is a delightful cake that’s perfect for enjoying right away!
Tips & Tricks
- Elevate the Flavors: For a more intense lemon taste, consider using a bit more lemon zest or a splash of lemon extract in the batter.
- Add a Glaze: For an extra touch of sweetness, whip up a simple lemon glaze by mixing powdered sugar and lemon juice.
- Serve with Berries: Fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries complement the cake beautifully and add a burst of color.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Lemon Custard Cake is versatile when it comes to serving. You can serve it plain or top it with a dollop of whipped cream for added decadence. Fresh fruit, such as mixed berries, pairs brilliantly with the tangy lemon flavor. For a cozy twist, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or lemon sorbet makes for a refreshing dessert option, especially during warm weather.
Nutritional Information
While indulging in dessert, it’s wise to be aware of its nutritional profile. Here’s an approximate breakdown per slice (based on 12 slices):
- Calories: 210
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Protein: 3g
- Sugar: 15g
As always, feel free to adjust ingredients to fit your dietary needs!
Storing Tips & Variations
To store your Lemon Custard Cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for a couple of days, or refrigerated for up to a week. If you notice the cake becoming too dry, a dab of whipped cream or a drizzle of warm lemon glaze can revive it!
For variations, consider adding poppy seeds for a delightful texture. You could also experiment with the flavor by substituting limes or oranges for the lemons—creating a custard cake that’s uniquely your own!
Conclusion
What are you waiting for? Lemon Custard Cake is not only simple to make but also a delicious way to indulge in a slice of summertime bliss, no matter the season. Your friends and family will love the bright, zesty flavor, and you’ll love how effortless it is to whip up. Try it for your next gathering or as a special treat just for yourself!
FAQs
1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! Lemon Custard Cake can be made a day in advance. Just store it properly, and it’ll taste just as delightful.
2. Can I freeze Lemon Custard Cake?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure it’s completely cooled, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
3. What can I substitute for butter?
You can substitute unsweetened applesauce or a dairy-free butter alternative to make this cake lighter or suitable for dietary restrictions.
4. How can I tell when the cake is done?
The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. It should also be lightly golden on top.
5. Can I add a frosting to this cake?
Yes! A lemon cream cheese frosting or a light whipped cream frosting would complement this cake beautifully.
Try this Lemon Custard Cake today, and bring a burst of sunshine into your kitchen! Enjoy every flavorful bite!
Lemon Custard Cake
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar This will sweeten your cake, giving it a nice balanced flavor.
- 1/2 cup butter, softened Adds richness and creates a fluffy texture.
- 3 large eggs Essential for building structure and moisture.
- 1 cup milk Contributes to the cake's creaminess.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour The base of our cake, providing stability.
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest Brings powerful lemon flavor and aroma.
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice Brightens the overall taste with its acidity.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder Gives the cake its lift and fluffiness.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt Enhances all the wonderful flavors.
Instructions
Preparation and Baking
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the sugar and softened butter together until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, until smooth and creamy.
- Stir in the milk, flour, lemon zest, lemon juice, baking powder, and salt until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for about 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.